The big match in La Liga this weekend will see Barcelona host Atletico Madrid. Both sides come into this fixture sitting in the Champions League spots, but only a victory for either will see them keep tabs on the table-topping Real Madrid.
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It has been a challenging period for Barcelona, as pressure has begun to increase on Xavi. The coach’s long-term future at the club was questioned after last weekend’s match, and there were some reports that claimed that Barcelona’s match against FC Porto in the Champions League was a must-win encounter for the Spanish side.
Fortunately, the La Liga champions landed maximum points in that fixture, and their focus can now switch to this clash against Atletico. Barcelona currently sit fourth in the standings, as they have won just three of their last five matches. The performance levels have been questioned in recent weeks, and they were hugely fortunate to avoid defeat in their previous league match against Rayo Vallecano, as they scored a late equalising goal.
Atletico Madrid are level on points with Barcelona at present, but they sit above the reigning champions on goal difference. They come into this match knowing that a third straight victory would see them cut the advantage at the top of the standings to just a point. Their recent form has been very eye-catching, and they are currently among the highest scorers in the league after netting 30 in their 13 matches.
Atletico’s solid form was maintained last weekend, as they battled to a 1-0 home win against Mallorca. The winner in that fixture was netted with 25 minutes remaining by Antoine Griezmann. They also followed up on that win with a Champions League victory over Feyenoord in midweek.
Barcelona vs Atletico Madrid Head to Head
Barcelona have dominated the previous clashes between these sides, as they have won each of the last three against Atletico in the league. Their most recent victory was a 1-0 success in April. Atletico’s only win in the previous five was a home success in October 2021.
Barcelona vs Atletico Madrid Prediction
Atletico’s poor away record against Barcelona would be a massive concern coming into this fixture. However, they have been impressive in the final third throughout this term, and it could be worth siding with the visitors to upset the odds on Sunday.
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